principal quantum number

American  

[prin-suh-puhl kwon-tuhm nuhm-ber] / ˈprɪn sə pəl ˈkwɒn təm ˈnʌm bər /

noun

Physics.

1. the nonnegative, integral quantum number that defines the stationary orbits in the Bohr model of the atom.

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principal quantum number Scientific  

/ prĭn′sə-pəl /

1. See under quantum number

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Etymology

Origin of principal quantum number

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

principal quantum number

We know that as we scan down a group, the principal quantum number, n, increases by one for each element.

From Textbooks ● Feb. 14, 2019

As we go down the elements in a group, the number of electrons in the valence shell remains constant, but the principal quantum number increases by one each time.

From Textbooks ● Feb. 14, 2019

The principal quantum number, n, can be any positive integer.

From Textbooks ● Feb. 14, 2019

The principal quantum number defines the location of the energy level.

From Textbooks ● Feb. 14, 2019

The principal quantum number is one of three quantum numbers used to characterize an orbital.

From Textbooks ● Feb. 14, 2019